Insect bite and its treatment:

Even though there are several insects which can inflict poison by bite or sting, the common ones which cause medical problems are bees, wasps and ants which are found near us. They belong to group Hymenoptera. As, these species live in groups if one stings you theirs more chance of you stinging by others. Mostly Bees and wasps inject poisonous venom by stinging into your skin.

The injury is mostly confined to the area close to the stings but may also result in severe bodily dysfunction as kidney failure. Most common presentation is local allergic reaction to and near the sting site as pain, swelling and itching. Sometimes larger zone of bacterial infection may also result within 12-36 hours of bite. Systemic Symptoms resulting in swelling of whole body, wheezing, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, decrease urine output etc. in severe cases unconsciousness and death may occur.

One recent case which I came across was a person who was sting by more than 100 wasps came with complain of decrease urine output and swelling of whole body. Vitals (Pulse, BP, Temp, Respiratory rate) were stable and on examination he had swelling of whole body, with difficulty in breathing and added sounds in chest. Urine output was nil. Blood test revealed acute renal failure for which he had to undergo hemodialysis for 5-6 episodes with other medical treatment. At end the patient symptoms resolved and he went back home at good health.

Treatment of wasp bite mostly depends on the severity of the condition. Many of the complications from an allergic reaction respond well to various medications-when given in time. Simple allergic bite in non allergic person doesn’t need more than first aid. Avoid bites by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent. Remove any stingers present in the body; wash whole body with soap; apply ice to the sting site as frequent as possible; use of antibiotic cream to sting site; antihistaminic medicine for itching and painkillers for pain relief. If symptoms are severe seek the medical attention immediately which can help in preventing your life, as death can occur sometimes.